What Is The Minimum Requirement For Asbestos Survey in Hampshire

Asbestos is a hazardous material that was widely used in the construction industry until it was banned in the UK in 1999. It is still present in many domestic and commercial properties that were built before 2000. Asbestos can cause serious health problems such as mesothelioma, lung cancer, and asbestosis. It is therefore important to manage asbestos-containing materials (ACMs) correctly to prevent exposure to asbestos fibres.

In this landing page, we will discuss the minimum requirement for asbestos survey in Hampshire. We are Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, a professional asbestos survey company in Hampshire. Our aim is to help domestic and commercial property owners to manage asbestos safely and to comply with health and safety laws.

What is Asbestos?

Asbestos is a natural mineral that was widely used in the construction industry due to its heat-resistant and insulating properties. It was commonly used in roofing, flooring, insulation, and wall panels. Asbestos was a popular material until it was banned in the UK due to health concerns.

Asbestos can be categorised into six types: chrysotile, crocidolite, amosite, anthophyllite, tremolite, and actinolite. These minerals can be found in different ACMs such as cement, insulation boards, ceiling tiles, and sprayed coatings. The dangerous fibres can be released into the air when ACMs are damaged, disturbed, or demolished. This can pose a serious health risk to anyone who inhales the fibres.

Why is an Asbestos Survey Necessary for Domestic Properties?

As a property owner, it is your duty to identify and manage any ACMs that may be present in your property. This includes domestic properties, such as houses, flats, and bungalows.

The Control of Asbestos Regulations 2012 requires duty holders to manage asbestos in non-domestic premises. However, there is no legal requirement to identify asbestos in domestic properties. Nevertheless, it is recommended to have an asbestos survey if you're planning any demolition or renovation work in your property.

What is Covered in an Asbestos Survey for Domestic Properties Built Before 2000?

If your domestic property was built before 2000, an asbestos survey is recommended before undertaking any demolition or renovation work. The survey will identify any ACMs that are likely to be disturbed during the work and assess the risk of exposure to asbestos fibres.

A domestic asbestos survey is a visual inspection and sampling of suspected materials. The surveyor will collect samples of suspicious materials and have them analysed in a laboratory. The survey report will identify the location, condition, and extent of all ACMs found in the property. The report will also provide recommendations for the management of the ACMs.

What is Included in a Building Survey for Residential Properties?

A building survey is a comprehensive inspection to identify all potential hazards in a residential property. This includes asbestos, but also covers other health and safety risks such as fire, damp, and structural defects.

A building survey usually includes a visual inspection of the property and the roof space, and the use of non-intrusive techniques such as thermal imaging and moisture meters. The surveyor will also review any documentation related to the property, such as planning permissions and building control certificates.

If asbestos is found during the building survey, the surveyor will provide recommendations for the management of the ACMs. This may include an asbestos removal plan, if necessary.

What Are the Risks Involved in Asbestos Surveys?

Asbestos surveys involve some level of risk as the surveyor may disturb ACMs during the inspection. Therefore, it is important to hire a qualified and experienced asbestos surveyor to ensure that the survey is carried out safely and correctly.

The surveyor should hold relevant qualifications such as the BOHS P402 certificate in asbestos surveying. They should also have adequate insurance and be registered with a professional body such as ARCA (Asbestos Removal Contractors Association) or ATaC (Asbestos Testing and Consultancy Association).

What Types of Asbestos Survey Are Available?

There are two main types of asbestos survey: management survey and refurbishment and demolition survey.

A management survey is the minimum requirement for duty holders to identify and manage asbestos in non-domestic premises. This survey is designed to locate the presence and condition of any ACMs that could be disturbed or damaged during normal occupancy, maintenance or other activities. A management survey should also assess the condition of the ACMs and the likelihood of fibre release.

A refurbishment and demolition survey is required when a building is to be refurbished or demolished. This survey is more intrusive and should locate all ACMs that are likely to be disturbed during the planned work. The survey also assesses the condition of the ACMs and the potential risk of fibre release.

How We Can Help

At Affordable Asbestos Removal Hampshire, we provide professional and affordable asbestos surveys for domestic and non-domestic premises in Hampshire and the South East England. We have qualified and experienced surveyors who can carry out both management and refurbishment and demolition surveys.

We ensure that all our surveys are carried out safely and comply with health and safety laws. We also provide comprehensive survey reports that include recommendations for the management of any identified ACMs.

If you are unsure whether you need an asbestos survey, or if you have any questions about asbestos, please contact us on 01962 458066 or email us at [email protected]. You can also visit our website at affordable-asbestos-removal-hampshire.co.uk.